Richmond is hosting various virtual events and activities for its residents in commemoration of National Indigenous Peoples Day.
June 21 marks the 25th National Indigenous Peoples Day where Canada celebrates the heritage and diverse cultures of the First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.
While the city and the rest of the world continue to battle against COVID-19, Richmond will be hosting all of its events online.
A smudging ceremony will kick off the week-long of events followed by a variety of storytelling, artist talks and workshops for everyone.
“National Indigenous Peoples Day is an opportunity to pause, reflect and learn about our rich Indigenous history,” said Mayor Malcolm Brodie.
“It is a day to honour the history, heritage and valuable contributions of the vibrant and diverse First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities and to work together to build greater awareness and respect.”
The following is the list of events:
Smudging Ceremony
Launching on Monday, June 21
Video link: www.richmondmuseum.ca/doors-open-videos/
Learn about the sacred smudging ceremony traditionally performed by Indigenous peoples across North America. Discover the two plants referred to as medicines that are often used for smudging and some key insights behind the ceremony.
First Stories: Tales from Turtle Island
Launching on Monday, June 21
Podcast link: https://anchor.fm/firststories
Hear the voices and stories of the original peoples of Turtle Island as told by Indigenous storytellers from across the land. The podcast is presented by Connections Community Services, the Richmond Public Library and the Gulf of Georgia Cannery.
Drum Across Kanata
Monday, June 21 to Tuesday, June 22
The Indigenous Education Department of the Vancouver School Board (VSB) invites the public to view their virtual Canada-wide Drum Across Kanata event in celebration of National Indigenous Peoples Day. VSB will share a link to the video recording of this celebration with anyone who would like to view it. To request the link, please email Davita Marsden [email protected] or Heather Froste [email protected].
Atheana Picha Artist Talk
Ongoing until Tuesday, June 22
Video link: https://youtu.be/4iXHFTIkrLw
Local Indigenous artist Atheana Picha speaks about her art practice, influence and mentors. This video was created as part of the artist's engagement activity with students from Tomekichi Homma Elementary School, where she is currently working on a mural that explores themes of local Indigenous stories and community connections.
Indigenous Plants and Properties Workshop
Tuesday, June 22, 3:45-5:45 p.m.
Join Métis herbalist and educator Lori Snyder for a workshop that celebrates Indigenous culture and teaches stewardship for the land we live on. The workshop is presented by Hamilton Community Association and is suitable for all ages. Registration is required. Register through the Call Centre at 604-276-4300 or www.richmond.ca/register (Course ID 90702) to receive the Zoom link.
Online Storytimes
Monday, June 21 to Friday, June 25
Richmond Public Library’s online storytimes will feature picture books by Indigenous authors. For more information and how to register, visit the library’s event calendar at https://bit.ly/3zhGsgr.
StoryWalk: Orca Chief
Thursday, June 24
Richmond Public Library – Brighouse branch
Take a trip to the forest for a surprising journey from beginning to end. Read a traditional northwest coast legend about caring for the sea and its inhabitants as well as sustainable fishing. Orca Chief is the story of four hunters who encounter the Chief of the Killer Whales by Roy Henry Vickers and Robert Budd. The event takes place rain or shine. Self-led StoryWalks® will be staggered by the household. Parent participation is required. To register, visit https://bit.ly/3zhGsgr.
Learn more about National Indigenous Peoples Day on the Government of Canada's website.
